Commencing the celebration of the BSU International Week 2024, the International Relations Office officially launched the Sustainability Literacy Program on October 21, 2024. The event gathered 102 participants joining both online and onsite, and was hosted by the program’s initiator, IRO Deputy Director Doreen I. Allasiw.
In his opening remarks, IRO Director Rex John G. Bawang outlined the rationale behind the initiative, emphasizing the importance of sustainability education for the university and the region. Dr. Warathida Chaiyapa, a sustainability expert from Chiang Mai University Thailand, delivered an insightful keynote exploring the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and introducing the emerging Inner Development Goals (IDGs) framework.
Students from the Bachelor of Science in Development Communication also showcased their video outputs, which highlighted the current state of SDG implementation and proposed actionable steps for universities.
Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres, led the participants in a sustainability pledge, calling for collective action to address the challenges of the SDGs within the university. To mark the conclusion of the event, Dr. Lumbres and Director Bawang led the signing of the Sustainability Commitment Wall, followed by BSU officials and student participants.
ABOUT THE SUSTAINABILITY LITERACY PROGRAM
The Sustainability Literacy Program at BSU will be a powerful tool for promoting sustainability education, fostering regional development, and addressing the pressing environmental and social challenges faced by the Cordillera region and beyond. By integrating Indigenous knowledge, strengthening climate resilience, and supporting the SDGs, the program will empower students and faculty while solidifying BSU’s position as a leader in sustainable development, both locally and globally.
